JERUSALEM — After 15 months of relentless conflict, a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip took effect Sunday morning, opening a day filled with dramatic developments.
Amid this backdrop of cautious optimism, Teddy Stadium, Jerusalem hosted the first match since the ceasefire, with Hapoel Jerusalem facing Hapoel Be’er Sheva in a game steeped in symbolism and emotion.
Hamas freed the first three of 33 Israeli hostages—Romi Gonen (28), Emily Damari (24), and Doron Steinbrecher (31)—after 471 days in captivity, in exchange for Israel releasing 90 Palestinian prisoners, all women and children.
A sign by Hapoel Jerusalem fans, congratulating the three hostages who returned, while calling to bring back the rest (Photo courtesy: Shaul Greenfeld)
Hapoel Jerusalem had been at the forefront of efforts to raise awareness of the hostages' cause, especially about its fan, Hersh Goldberg-Polin, who was tragically murdered after being held captive by Hamas. The club’s cause resonated internationally, with Werder Bremen fans and organizations in Germany joining the campaign during the war.
On the pitch, Hapoel Be’er Sheva secured a commanding 2-0 victory. Kings Kangwa struck in the 26th minute, while Eliel Peretz doubled the lead in the 76th, leaving Jerusalem without an answer.
Despite the result, the match was about more than football. It symbolized resilience and unity on a day when the nation’s focus extended far beyond the field.
"With all the pain on the loss, there were much bigger things in the country today. We are happy for all those who returned home today," said Hapoel Jerusalem coach Ziv Arieh in his post-match interview. "We hope that all of the hostages will return."
Helder Lopes of Hapoel Be’er Sheva. Photo courtesy: Shaul Greenfeld)
Hapoel Jerusalem’s coach, Ziv Arieh. His team need to beware of joining the relegation battles. (Photo courtesy: Shaul Greenfeld)
It was easy for them. Kings Kangwa and Eitan Mizrachi celebrate Be’er Sheva’s first goal. (Photo courtesy: Shaul Greenfeld)
“Romi, Emily, Doron — welcome back home”. Hapoel Jerusalem community is one of the leading voices in calls to return the hostages. (Photo courtesy: Shaul Greenfeld)
For the first time since Oct. 7, 2023, Palestinian club football returns this weekend as 226 teams compete across three war-scarred regions.